{"id":54742,"date":"2020-06-07T20:09:52","date_gmt":"2020-06-07T20:09:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.soothe.com\/?p=54742"},"modified":"2024-08-13T15:33:17","modified_gmt":"2024-08-13T15:33:17","slug":"lymphatic-massage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.soothe.com\/articles\/lymphatic-massage\/","title":{"rendered":"Lymphatic Massage: What Is It and Who Should Get One?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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What is Lymphatic Massage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

Manual lymphatic drainage massage, also commonly referred to as MLD massage, is a gentle massage modality that encourages the movement of lymph fluid through the body. The body\u2019s lymphatic system naturally removes waste from tissue, with the lymph nodes helping to destroy bacteria, viruses and other harmful microorganisms as lymph fluid passes through. When lymph fluid builds up in the body, it can lead to general discomfort, swelling, and even certain health conditions. A lymphatic drainage massage can assist in detoxifying the body by stimulating the tissue to remove lymph fluid buildup without compressing the vessels.<\/p>\n\n

During a Swedish massage<\/a> or deep tissue massage, the therapist focuses on applying pressure to the muscles to create an overall sense of relaxation. When performing a lymphatic drainage massage, the certified therapist will instead use a sequence of rhythmic gliding, compressing, stretching, and cupping motions to help move lymph fluid through the tissues and lymph nodes. Many techniques of lymphatic drainage therapy<\/a> are easy to do at home, too.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n

The Benefits of Lymphatic Massage<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

While MLD was originally developed in the 1930s to relieve the symptoms of lymphedema<\/a>, a common side effect from chemotherapy and radiation for cancer, it has grown in popularity over the years. Lymphatic drainage and massage techniques are still used in the medical community for treating conditions like fibromyalgia, but MLD is now also highly sought after among the general public for its many wellness benefits. Some of the benefits of regular lymphatic massage include:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n